Air Niugini tests new plane

Air Niugini has started its search for the most suitable aircraft to update its fleet and was recently given a demonstration in Port Moresby of the capabilities of an Embraer E195– E2.

Embraer is a global aerospace company with its headquarters in Brazil and its E195– E2 aircraft is viewed as a possible replacement for Air Niugini’s Fokker planes.

Air Niugini is also looking at other options from manufacturers around the world.

Air Niugini managing director, Alan Milne, says the airline is in the process of developing a fleet-replacement plan.

He says the airline wants to ensure it is operating the most efficient, cost effective and reliable aeroplanes, while also delivering the premium Air Niugini customer experience.

The operating costs for the E195– E2 are claimed to be 25 per cent less than the Fokker and it has good range and unmatched passenger comfort.

Since it was founded in 1969, Embraer has delivered over 8000 aircraft to over 100 customers around the globe. ■

The Embraer E195– E2 … a delegation of VIPs, government officials, Air Niugini staff, travel agents and journalists gathers for the plane’s demonstration flight in Port Moresby.